Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe: The Perfect Summer Entertaining Dish

If you’re looking for the perfect summer entertaining dish, look no further! Smoked salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that is sure to please your guests.

My Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe is a surefire way to make sure your party is a hit. I’ve been making this recipe for years and I’ve perfected it to a “t”. It’s so easy to make that even a novice cook can whip it up in no time flat.

In this article, I’ll share my Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe with you so you can make your summer entertaining the talk of the town. I’ll also give you some tips and tricks to make sure your smoked salmon comes out perfectly every time. So don’t wait, let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious dish made with Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon recipe
Delicious dish made with Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon recipe

If you’re looking to bring something special to the table this summer, then you’ll love this Masterbuilt smoked salmon recipe. It’s the perfect dish to serve up at any gathering, and it’s sure to be the talk of the town.

Think of this recipe as a blank canvas. You can customize it however you’d like to make sure it fits the occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a formal dinner or a casual barbecue, this smoked salmon dish will leave your guests feeling satisfied.

The key to this dish is the dry brine. This mixture of spices and herbs will give the salmon a delicious flavor that’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to mix up, so you can get your fillets in the smoker in no time.

Once the salmon is finished smoking, you’ll want to be sure to let it rest for about 15 minutes. This will ensure that all the juices stay inside the fillet and won’t run out when you take it off the smoker. We recommend wrapping the fillets in paper towels during this time to keep them extra moist.

This recipe is made with Atlantic salmon, but you can also use wild salmon or even fresh salmon if you prefer. Whichever type of salmon you choose, you can be sure that it will be the best smoked salmon you’ve ever tasted.

So if you’re looking for an easy smoked salmon recipe that’s sure to impress, then this Masterbuilt smoked salmon recipe is the perfect dish for you. It’s one of the best smoked salmon recipes around, and it’s the best way to make a statement at your next summer gathering.

Ingredient List

A top down view of Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon to give you a garnish suggestion.
A top down view of Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon to give you a garnish suggestion.

If you’re looking for the perfect summer entertaining dish, you’ll love this Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon recipe. Not only is it delicious and easy to make, but it also requires minimal ingredients and preparation time. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect smoked salmon experience for your guests:

– 2 pounds of king salmon or sockeye salmon fillets

– 4 tablespoons of wet brine

– 4 tablespoons of dry brine

– A small handful of wood chips

– ¼ cup of cream cheese

– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce

To start, place the fillets on a wire rack in a large container. Pour the wet and dry brines over the fillets and let them sit for at least 30 minutes. This will help to bring out the flavor and texture of the salmon.

Once the brining process is complete, it’s time to start smoking the salmon. Set up your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions and add the wood chips. Then, place the fillets on the smoker rack and set the temperature to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Close the smoker and let the salmon smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

When the salmon is finished cooking, it’s time to enjoy! Serve the salmon with cream cheese and soy sauce, or use your favorite marinade as a topping. Your guests are sure to love the flavor and texture of this delicious smoked salmon dish.

TIP: If you don’t have access to a smoker, you can also cook the salmon in a cold water bath. Simply fill a large pot with cold water and place the salmon fillets inside. Let the water reach a temperature of 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit before removing the fillets. This method won’t give you the same smoky flavor as a smoker, but it is a great alternative for those without access to one.

The Recipe How-To

You’ve gathered the ingredients and you’re ready to make the Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe. This delicious dish is perfect for summer entertaining, and with just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dish that your guests will love. Let’s get started!

First, you’ll need to prepare the salmon brine. In a bowl, mix together a cup of kosher salt, a cup of maple syrup, and a tablespoon of black pepper. Once the mixture is well combined, place the salmon fillets in the brine and set aside for at least two hours.

Next, it’s time to make the dry rub. In a separate bowl, mix together two tablespoons of paprika, two tablespoons of garlic powder, one tablespoon of black pepper, and one tablespoon of onion powder. Once the dry rub is fully incorporated, take the salmon out of the brine and pat it dry with a paper towel.

Once the salmon is dry, take the dry rub and sprinkle it evenly onto the meat side of the salmon. Make sure to rub it in well so that the flavor is fully absorbed. Then, place the salmon on a baking sheet with the skin side down and set aside.

Now, it’s time to cold smoke the salmon. Preheat your Masterbuilt smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and add your favorite wood chips to the smoker box. Place the salmon onto the smoker rack and smoke for an hour, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your smoked salmon! Serve it with your favorite sides and condiments and enjoy the best salmon of the summer. With this Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe, you’ll be sure to impress your guests and make a lasting impression.

Substitutions & Variations

You can cook this Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon recipe in no time if you follow my instructions.
You can cook this Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon recipe in no time if you follow my instructions.

A successful dish starts with a great recipe. But a truly great dish is one that can be varied and adapted to fit the occasion. When it comes to the Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe, you’ll find that it’s easy to make substitutions and variations in order to create something unique and special.

I like to start with the basics. If you don’t have wild caught salmon, you can substitute it with coho salmon. If you’re looking for more of a smoke flavor, you can add a little more of the smoking blend. When it comes to salt, you can adjust the amount to your own taste.

Raw salmon is the ideal choice for this recipe, but you can also use pre-smoked salmon. If you choose to do this, you may need to adjust the cooking time, as the pre-smoked salmon will have already been cooked. You’ll also want to reduce the amount of smoking blend you use, so that you don’t overpower the pre-smoked flavor.

If you’d like to try hot smoking your salmon, you can easily do so. You’ll need to ensure that the temperature is kept between 180 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit (80 to 93 degrees Celsius). Also, make sure you use less salt as the hot smoking process will take longer.

For those looking to keep things simple, you can just use the basic ingredients in the recipe. You can also add other ingredients to give it a unique twist. I like to add some garlic powder and lemon juice for an extra hit of flavor.

When it comes to the pin bones, the recipe suggests using tweezers to remove them. But if you don’t have any tweezers to hand, you can use a pair of needle nose pliers. Just make sure to be careful and not to damage the flesh of the fish.

Finally, you can use either a wood chip tray or an aluminum foil tray to smoke the salmon. I personally prefer to use a wood chip tray as it gives the salmon a more authentic smoke flavor.

The Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious summertime dish. With just a few substitutions and variations, you can easily create something special that your guests won’t soon forget. So, why not give it a try and add a touch of flair to your next summer gathering?

Tips For Your Success

When it comes to making the perfect summer smoked salmon recipe, there are a few tips that can help to ensure your success. First, it’s important to remember that the brown sugar used in the recipe will add sweetness and flavor, so don’t skimp on it. Additionally, make sure to use high temperatures when smoking the salmon, as this will help to lock in the flavor and keep your salmon moist.

When it comes to the smoking process, it’s important to remember that there are two types of smoked salmon: cold and hot. Cold smoked salmon is smoked at a lower temperature and is best placed in the smoker at least two hours before the heat source is lit. Hot smoked salmon, on the other hand, is cooked at a higher temperature, and should be placed in the smoker at the same time as the heat source.

In order to get the perfect smoked salmon, it’s important to have the right tools. You’ll need a sharp knife to make sure that your salmon is sliced properly, and a meat thermometer to ensure that your salmon is cooked all the way through.

By following these tips, you can be sure of your success when making the perfect summer smoked salmon recipe. Not only will you impress your guests with your delicious dish, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the delicious flavor of smoked salmon without any of the hassle. So, get ready to enjoy your summer smoked salmon recipe and impress your guests with your culinary skills.

Storing And Freezing Suggestions

If you’re lucky enough to have some smoked salmon left over after a successful summer entertaining event, then you’ll want to make sure you store it properly to avoid any wastage. To do this, you’ll need to understand the best storing and freezing suggestions for cold smoked salmon.

Cold smoke salmon can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. To do this, wrap the fish in plastic wrap, and place it in a cardboard box in the fridge. This will help to keep it fresh, and it’s the perfect way to store it if you plan to use the leftovers within a few days.

If you want to store your cold smoked salmon for longer, then you’ll need to freeze it. To do this, wrap the fish in plastic wrap, and place it in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help to keep it at its best quality for up to two months.

When it comes to reheating cold smoked salmon, make sure you cook it at its lowest temperature. This will help to keep the flavors intact and ensure that it’s as delicious as when it was first cooked. If you’re looking for ways to use up cold smoked salmon, then try searching online for some of the best electric smokers, hot smoked salmon recipes, salmon candy, and other cold smoked salmon recipes.

Now that you know how to store and freeze cold smoked salmon correctly, it’s time to get creative with your leftovers. With the right storage techniques, you can easily enjoy your smoked salmon long after cook time.

FAQ

Now that you have a better understanding of the recipe and its key elements, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions.

What are the best results for this Masterbuilt smoked salmon recipe?

The best results for this recipe are a moist and flaky fish with a balanced sweetness and smokiness. It will have a perfect smoky flavor and a nice texture.

How is this smoked salmon recipe different from others?

This recipe uses a dry brining method and cold smoking process to infuse the salmon with flavor. Cold smoking is done at a low temperature and it allows the fish to cook slowly, resulting in a delicate texture and taste.

Can I use other wood types other than alder wood?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of wood chips to achieve different smoke flavors. Some popular options include hickory, mesquite, and apple wood.

Why is it important to use wild-caught salmon?

Wild-caught salmon has the best flavor and health benefits, as it is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients. Farmed salmon may be lower in fat content, but it is not as flavorful or nutritious.

How long should I refrigerate the salmon after dry brining it?

The salmon should be refrigerated for 8-12 hours after dry brining. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish and for the texture to become more firm.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

To ensure the salmon is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. It should reach 145°F.

Bottom line

Masterbuilt smoked salmon is the ideal summer dish for entertaining. Its delicious taste and simple preparation make it easy to enjoy and share with friends and family. It is also a healthy option, packed with protein and omega-3s.

This recipe is sure to be a hit with your guests, as it is both tasty and nutritious. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Plus, you can customize the dish to suit your own taste preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a show-stopping entrée, Masterbuilt smoked salmon is the perfect choice. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also guarantees a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave your guests wanting more.

Delicious dish made with Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon recipe

Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe

This Masterbuilt smoked salmon recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and produces a moist, flaky fish with a smoky flavor.
5 from 6 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
dry brining 12 hours
Total Time 15 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 279 kcal

Equipment

  • Masterbuilt electric smoker
  • Wire rack
  • Plastic wrap
  • Large bowl
  • small bowl
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs. of salmon fillets skin-on
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp. black pepper
  • 2 tbsp. maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup wood chips alder wood recommended
  • Lemon slices and olive oil for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, maple syrup, and soy sauce. Mix well.
  • Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, on a wire rack.
  • Rub the dry brine mixture on the top of the fillets, making sure to cover them evenly.
  • Wrap the fillets with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8-12 hours.
  • Remove the fillets from the refrigerator and rinse them off under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
  • Place the fillets, skin-side down, on the wire rack.
  • Place the wood chips in the wood chip tray of the Masterbuilt electric smoker.
  • Preheat the smoker to 200°F.
  • Once preheated, place the wire rack with the fillets on the bottom rack of the smoker.
  • Smoke the salmon for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  • Remove the fillets from the smoker and let them cool on a cooling rack.
  • Once cooled, use a sharp knife to remove any remaining pin bones from the fillets.
  • Serve with lemon slices and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

  • This recipe is for cold-smoking. If you prefer hot-smoking, increase the temperature of the smoker to 225°F and cook for 1-2 hours.
  • You can use any type of salmon for this recipe, but wild-caught salmon will have the best flavor and health benefits.
  • Experiment with different types of wood chips to achieve different smoke flavors.
  • Consume the salmon within 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Keep in mind that excessive consumption of smoked salmon may increase the risk of food poisoning.

YOUR OWN NOTE

Nutrition

Calories: 279kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 31gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 83mgSodium: 5061mgPotassium: 846mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 88IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 57mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Masterbuilt Smoked Salmon Recipe
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Shara

Shara @The Bird BBQ

Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.